February 17 – Racism has reared its ugly head again, this time in the English Championship with Burnley midfielder, Hannibal Mejbri accusing Preston North End (PNE) striker, Milutin Osmajic of racially abusing him.
The incident occurred during Burnley’s 0-0 draw at Deepdale, the home of PNE.
The match was delayed by match official, Andrew Kitchen, after Hannibal reacted to something said by Osmajic. Hannibal spoke to Kitchen at length which resulted in the stoppage.
Hannibal, formerly of Manchester United posted the following on Instagram saying, “I will not be silent about what happened today. I will always call out racism whenever I see it.”
“That is the only way we can change sport and society. I am a strong person but nobody should have to experience this disgusting abuse on the pitch.”
Burnley said that they would offer their full support to the player.
Preston said that Osmajic “strongly refuted” the claims that he made comments of a racial nature to Hannibal. The player also had a post-match meeting with the officials where he again “strongly refuted” the allegations.
Burnley Manager Scott Parker said to the BBC after the game: “He’s (Hannibal) is hurt. I think everyone could see that at the time, Hannibal’s an emotional player and he was visibly very distressed by what was said.
“I don’t want to get into the real details of what he said, I’m sure it’ll come out in due course. Hannibal’s reported it and is bitterly gutted really so we’ll see what happens in the coming days.”
In October of last year, Osmajic was banned for eight games by the Football Association (FA) after biting Blackburn Rover’s Owen Beck. The Montenegro international was also fined £15,000.
In a rich fate of coincidence, the two teams meet in a fortnight for an FA Cup 5th round tie. Deepdale will once again be the venue.
Contact the writer of this story, Nick Webster, at moc.l1740245675labto1740245675ofdlr1740245675owedi1740245675sni@o1740245675fni1740245675